What Is Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic surfactant created by reacting medium-chain fatty alcohols derived from coconut or palm kernel oil with approximately two units of ethylene oxide, then attaching a sulfosuccinate group and neutralizing the mixture with sodium. The result is a water-soluble powder or viscous liquid that mixes easily into both water and oil phases. First introduced in the late 1970s as a milder alternative to traditional sulfates, it quickly found favor in personal care because it produces rich foam without the harshness often linked to sodium lauryl sulfate.
The ingredient is manufactured through a multi-step process: fatty alcohols are first ethoxylated, then esterified with maleic anhydride to form a sulfosuccinic half-ester, followed by neutralization with sodium carbonate. Tight quality control keeps the average of two ethoxy units consistent, which influences its mildness and solubility.
Today you will most often see Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate in face and body washes, micellar waters, bubble baths, shampoos, scalp scrubs, cream cleansers, baby washes, and occasionally in exfoliating masks where a gentle yet effective cleansing action is required. Formulators like it because it boosts foam even in hard water, allows clear formulas, and supports other ingredients by acting as a hydrotrope that keeps everything evenly mixed.
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile surfactant serves several roles inside a cosmetic formula, each of which contributes to a pleasant user experience and reliable product performance.
- Cleansing: Lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and makeup lift away easily leaving skin or hair feeling refreshed rather than stripped
- Skin conditioning: Deposits a thin, smooth film that helps skin feel soft and comfortable after rinsing
- Foam boosting: Enhances the volume and stability of lather which consumers associate with effective cleaning and indulgence
- Hydrotrope: Improves the solubility of fragrance oils, botanical extracts and other actives helping to keep the formula clear and uniform
Who Can Use Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate
This surfactant is generally considered gentle enough for all skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its mild cleansing action makes it especially appealing for sensitive or reactive skin that struggles with harsher sulfates. That said, individuals with very compromised skin barriers or active dermatitis may still prefer to avoid any foaming agents until irritation has subsided.
Because the ingredient is synthesized from plant-derived fatty alcohols and contains no animal-based components, it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Manufacturing does not typically involve animal testing, though certification depends on the finished brand’s policies.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as current safety assessments have found the ingredient non-toxic at cosmetic use levels. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before introducing new personal care products.
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn after use. It also rinses clean without leaving a film that might interfere with sunscreen performance.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin redness or tightness
- Transient stinging on broken or highly sensitive skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to sulfosuccinates
If any discomfort or visible irritation develops discontinue use and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate is a highly water-soluble surfactant that rinses away without leaving an oily or waxy residue, so it does not linger on the skin long enough to block pores. Its molecular structure is geared toward lowering surface tension rather than depositing film-forming lipids, which is why formulators view it as non-comedogenic. For that reason it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Very sensitive users could still react to an overall formula, but the ingredient itself is not likely to trigger comedones. No notable interactions with acne medications have been reported.
Summary
Disodium C12-14 Pareth-2 Sulfosuccinate cleanses by surrounding oil and dirt so they lift away with water, conditions by leaving a light smooth afterfeel, boosts foam for a richer lather and acts as a hydrotrope that keeps complex formulas clear and stable. It enjoys steady popularity in gentle face washes, baby shampoos and sulfate-free body cleansers because it offers the cleansing power consumers expect without the dryness sometimes linked to harsher surfactants. Current safety assessments find it non-toxic and non-sensitizing at typical use levels, so most people can use it without issue. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to perform a quick patch test when trying a product that contains it just to be on the safe side.